“At this time of year, we hear a lot about how to get our properties ready for storm and bushfire season,” Ms Fentiman said.

“But when it comes to our finances, most of us are completely unprepared for an emergency.

“The Money Ready Toolkit outlines what Queenslanders need to think about before, during and after a disaster to ensure they – and our communities – bounce back more quickly.”

General Manager of Marketing and Innovation at Good Shepherd Microfinance, Renee Hancock, said many of us were unaware of the steps we should take to ensure our financial wellbeing in the face of disaster.

“We know that 13 percent of the Australian population would be unable to raise $2,000 for an emergency and one in 10 Queenslanders don’t think their insurance would cover the cost of rebuilding their home,” Ms Hancock said.

“Another one in 10 has no home insurance at all. If their homes were wiped out by a cyclone or bushfire, these people would be thousands of dollars out of pocket.”

She said the toolkit made it simple to check the health of your finances.

“Even if you’re on a limited income, there are ways to improve your financial health and make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way,” Ms Hancock said.

“A few simple changes can make all the difference.”

ENDS

About Good Shepherd Microfinance

Good Shepherd Microfinance is a world leader in financial inclusion products, services and advisory. We offer a range of people-centred, affordable financial programs for people on low incomes, working with 250 community providers in 670 locations across Australia including 115 sites in Queensland.

Good Shepherd Microfinance is committed to working with the community, government and business sectors to develop innovative solutions to address the issues of financial exclusion.

Good Shepherd Microfinance’s No Interest Loan Scheme, offers people on low incomes safe, fair and affordable loans for fridges, washing machines and furniture, as well as education and medical expenses.

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Good Shepherd Microfinance acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the traditional owners of the lands on which we operate and work, and pays respects to their history, their living culture and to Elders past and present.